"Funding will be targeted to projects which deliver strong outcomes for local communities."

Previously successful projects have included money to reconstruct the marine rescue tower at Ballina, to build a new hangar facility at Rockhampton for the Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service, and for a cultural precinct at Lismore.

Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said applications must be for projects between $20,000 with a limit of commonwealth funding of $10 million.

"Grant funding must be matched in cash on at least a dollar-for-dollar basis, with the exception of applicants in remote and very remote locations who will need to contribute at least $1 for every $3 of funding sought," Mr McCormack said.

"We have introduced less stringent requirements for partner funding in remote and very remote communities in Round Three to make the National Stronger Regions Fund more accessible to these applicants.

"Regional Australia has a vital role to play driving economic development, lifting productivity and fostering innovation and through the support of this program we are encouraging growth and investment at the local community level."